Alxa Museum
阿拉善博物馆
The comprehensive museum of the Alxa League, showcasing Helan Mountain rock art, desert geology, and the history of the Mongol Torghut and Khoshut peoples.
The Alxa Museum is in the new district of Bayan Hot and is the best place to start learning about Alxa. Its galleries cover the geology and landforms of the Alxa Desert World Geopark, along with dinosaur fossils, artifacts related to the Juyan Han bamboo slips and Khara-Khoto, Helan Mountain rock art, the history of the Khoshut and Torghut Mongols, and the culture of camels and scholar's stones. Admission is generally free, and visitors show their ID to collect a ticket. The museum is usually closed on Mondays, but check the official announcements for current hours. Allow about 1.5 hours. It is a good introduction before heading into the desert.
Opening hours
Closed Mondays; approx. 09:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Dingyuanying Ancient Town
- Yanfu Temple
- Guangzong Monastery (Nansi) & Helan Mountain Scenic Area
- Fuyin Monastery (Beisi)
- Swan Lake (Tengger Desert)
- Dream Desert Motor Park
- Moon Lake (Tengger Desert)
- Tonghu Grassland